Atmospheric Dispersion Modeling for NC Prescribed Burns

Montgomery Community College - Troy, NC

Prerequisite Experience: Prescribed fire experience and knowledge of a smoke management program are required. Working knowledge of Arc Map 9.0 or greater and RX-410 Smoke Management Techniques are preferred.

Workshop Activities: The workshop will focus on the use of models such as the Fire Emission Production Simulator (FEPS), DIGITAL PHOTOSERIES or other fuels information, PC-VSMOKE, VSMOKE Web and PC-HYSPLIT. VSMOKE and HYSPLIT are atmospheric dispersion models that have been evaluated for use under the NC Smoke Management Program. The use of each model and its limitations will be discussed. PC-HYSPLIT will be demonstrated to workshop participants. Prior to workshop attendance VSMOKE Web will be introduced through required pre-work and reviewed at the workshop. There will be several exercises designed for participants to establish and reinforce a working knowledge of the use of FEPS and HYSPLIT. These tools can assist in making Go/No-go decisions for prescribed fire or to assess smoke impacts from prescribed fires or wildland fire. Workshop participants are required to bring spatial data sets and/or information for one project on which they are currently working. This project will be used as part of their training and can serve as one of the required ADM runs to perform in achieving ADM certification.

Length: 18 total hours over three days - Monday, 1 - 5 PM; Tuesday, 8 AM - 5 PM; Wednesday, 8 AM - 3 PM. Instructors will be available for evening assistance either at MCC or at place of lodging.

Credits: Continuing forestry education (CFE) hours are currently being requested and with successful completion 14.0 CFE Category 1 hours can be earned.